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A friend's 22-year-old is trying to make something of her dancing skills. The next step is Pilates training, with a goal of becoming an instructor. I think paying her way has been tough since high school, though she has parental support.
In any case, it's kind of like football, isn't it? Tens of thousands play in high school, thousands play in college, and hundreds play professionally. Most of us don't even throw a football in the back yard much any more. Not playing high school football isn't the answer, of course, but knowing that it's a temporary thing is essential. Dance is so cool, but it's like so many arts-related endeavors: Worthy, essential to a life well lived, even, but often unprofitable.
Helping teens see the big picture is an eternal struggle, of course. It's good that she's talented and involved. She's way ahead of most kids in that respect, certainly.
And yes, the hardest part is sitting back and watching.
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